Complete Guide to Setting Up or Acquiring a Hong Kong Licensed Corporation

Introduction

A Hong Kong LC is the passport for regulated securities, asset-management, or advisory businesses. This guide contrasts buying an existing licence versus applying from scratch, covering pricing, timelines, due-diligence, and deal tactics.


1. Small-Cap Licence Pricing (H1 2025)

Licence ComboPrimary UsesTypical BuyersMarket Range
Type 4 & 9 (“49”)Advisory & AMFamily offices, PEHKD 1.8–2.0 M
Type 1Brokerage, USD bondsBrokers, WM platformsHKD 2.0–2.3 M
Type 1+4+9 (“149”)Bonds + Advisory + AMOne-stop shopsHKD 2.8–3.0 M

2. Buy vs. Build

DimensionAcquire an LCSet-up & Apply
Speed1–2 months≈ 9 months
Premium~ HKD 1 MNear-zero
VisibilityLegacy compliance riskFull control
CashflowRevenue Day 1Cash locked during approval
TalentROs may exitHand-pick ROs

3. FAQs

  • Is HK permanent residency mandatory for ROs? No—SFC looks at local management presence.
  • Based in Mainland, can I hold an HK licence? Yes, if the HK entity has on-the-ground ops, IT, compliance.
  • Insurance vs. securities licence conflict? Generally none; manage suitability & conflicts.

4. Adding Licence Types

  • Example: 49 → 49 + 1 in 1–2 months
  • Costs: SFC fees, advisory, incremental RO salary
  • Compliance: Revise business plan, IT, AML to cover new scope

5. Must-Have Due-Diligence Checklist

  • Audited financials & capital adequacy
  • SFC actions, fines, unresolved complaints
  • Client & jurisdiction risk (sanctions, HNWI)
  • Retention plans for current ROs / MLROs
  • Health of OMS, KYC, reporting systems

6. Deal-Making Playbook

  1. Milestone payments tied to SFC approvals or key hires
  2. Conditions precedent (e.g., RO approval) for walk-away safety
  3. Warranty & indemnity to cover legacy breaches

7. Conclusion

A licence opens the door, but robust governance keeps you inside. Balance time, cost, and risk; let compliance and long-term strategy steer your decision to acquire or build.

Latest Licences for Sale!

LCS0007 / Type 1 & 4 License / $1.65M / $4.3M NAV / Central PI Advisory Firm

By conradko | May 4, 2025

Key Points: Major Selling Points: Other Details: For more information, please WhatsApp 93472064. Paradox Management Limited is representing the seller and the listed price of $1.65M includes Paradox’s commission. Note: These details are for reference only and may deviate significantly from the actual company. View with caution.

SOLD:IB0015 / Insurance Broker License / General & Long Term Business (including Linked Long Term Business) / Historical FYP US$3.2M+ / Strong Insurance Company Relationships

By conradko | April 23, 2025

Key Points: Major Selling Points: Other Details: For more information or to engage with the seller, please WhatsApp 93472064. Paradox Management Limited is representing the seller and the price shown includes Paradox’s commission.

LCS0080 / Type 1,4,9 License / $4.5M / NAV $4.5M / NO LICENSE CONDITIONS with HSBC & CITIC Bank Accounts

By conradko | April 16, 2025

Key Points: Major Selling Points: Other Details: For more information, please contact via WhatsApp: 93472064. Paradox Management Limited is representing the seller and the price shown includes Paradox’s commission. Please note: These details are for reference only and may deviate significantly from the actual company. View with caution.

LCS0079 / Type 1, 4, 9 License / $2,000,000 + $6,600,000 NAV / No Trading Rights, No Client Assets, Long-Established Company

By conradko | March 26, 2025

Key Points: Major Selling Points: Other Details: For more information or to engage with the seller, please WhatsApp 93472064. Paradox Management Limited is representing the seller and the price shown includes Paradox’s commission. ⚠️ Note: These details are for reference only and may deviate significantly from the actual company. View with caution.

Latest Licences wanted!

BB0080 | SFC Type 1 or 1,4 License | Budget: 2M HKD

By conradko | August 17, 2024

💼 Established mainland Chinese brokerage firm🏦 Specializes in options and margin trading🌐 Seeking to expand into Hong Kong📋 License required: SFC Type 1 or Types 1 and 4💰 Budget: 2 million HKD📈 Commission: 800,000 HKD markup requested Other Details: No current physical presence in Hong KongLooking to acquire an SFC licensed company For more information,…

BB0066 | SFC 1,4,9 | Budget 2.8M

By conradko | August 17, 2024

🔍 Opportunity Alert: SFC Licensed Corporation Sought A mainland private equity fund is on the lookout for an SFC licensed corporation with Types 1, 4, and 9 licenses. This is a unique chance for sellers in the financial sector! Key Details:🏢 Licenses: SFC Types 1, 4, and 9💰 Budget: 2.8M HKD📈 Commission: 800,000 HKD markup…

BB0061 | 🏛️ License: SFC Type 1 | 💰 Budget: HK$2,500,000

By conradko | August 17, 2024

Major Points about the buyer: 📊 SFC Type 1 license required💼 Trading Right needed📈 Margin trading capability preferred🕰️ Company history: 5+ years💰 Budget: HK$2,500,000 Other Details: Buyers include major shareholders of listed companiesReady for immediate SPA signing and deposit paymentWilling to cover transition period operational costsPrefer current RO to stay onCompany name must include “Securities”Buyers…

Paradox Management Limited

Paradox Management Limited, established in 2010 in Hong Kong, specializes in vocational training and licensing support for the finance, banking, and insurance sectors. The company offers personalized training programs, including private sessions and group classes, as well as access to comprehensive exam question banks. Additionally, Paradox Management Limited assists with regulatory compliance, the acquisition and sale of financial entities, and obtaining Money Lender Licenses. Catering primarily to small financial institutions, the company is known for its deep industry expertise, client-focused approach, and proven success in helping professionals excel in their careers.

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